July 30, 2007

Firefighters respond to car fire

       White River Township firefighters responded earlier this evening to a report of a car fire on Summit Ridge Court in the Fairview Heights Subdivision.  Upon the arrival of Engine 52, the crew reported a fully-engulfed vehicle fire that was spreading to a nearby garage and requested additional manpower at the scene.  The vehicle was located at an extended distance off the road in the rear of the property, so crews had to stretch additional supply line to reach the fire.  The Engine 52 crew was able to contain the fire before spreading any further.  The additional crews were brought in as a precaution and to assist in overhaul and the investigation.

         The vehicle involved was being retrofitted into a demolition derby car by a man at the scene.  He apparently was using a welding torch when the fire started.  He received second-degree burns to his legs and was treated at the scene by paramedics.  He attempted to control the flames with a garden hose prior to the fire department's arrival, but was unsuccessful due to the heavy flames.  No estimate on damage was available at press time.
  

           
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